Set in the shadow of extinct volcanoes, Auckland is New Zealand’s biggest city – and while it offers a bustling urban metropolis bursting at the seams with things to see and do, it’s also home to some of the country’s most beautiful sprawling scenic wonders, including mountains, harbours, and islands.Whether you’re travelling with family, booking an adventure-packed trip with friends, planning a romantic getaway, or looking to squeeze in some of the city’s best sights and experiences during a business trip, there’s something for everyone in New Zealand’s SuperCity.

A cultural melting pot

If you’re looking for a taste of the local culture in Auckland, there are some fantastic activities and annual events that are a must for your travel itinerary, including the Auckland Museum and Auckland Art Gallery.

Auckland Zoo is a firm favourite among locals and visitors alike, offering an amazing experience set amid 17 hectares of lush parkland just minutes from central Auckland. See New Zealand species such as New Zealand fur seals and North Island brown kiwi, and exotic species, including African lions, giraffes, and southern white rhinoceros.

For romantic couples

Travelling with your significant other? If you’re honeymooning or looking for some loved-up experiences to share during your stay, you can’t go past a day of relaxation and indulgence at one of Auckland’s many fine spas. Book an Indigenous New Zealand Greenstone Massage at Spa at the Pullman Auckland, or an Instant Glow Facial at So SPA at Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour for the ultimate in holiday pampering.

After a day of unwinding, venture out into the greater Auckland area for a spectacular day of beach, rainforest and waterfall views. Oakley Creek offers a great place to take a leisurely stroll while enjoying the birdlife, native bush and its own waterfall, or pack a picnic for two and head out to Piha in West Auckland, which features one of Auckland’s most famous black sand beaches.

Follow that with a superb winery restaurant lunch and tastings at a selection of three local West Coast wineries. Auckland Wine Trail Tours’ Waterfalls and Wines day tour offers an experience unlike any other for couples who enjoy the finer things in life.

Food for thought

Food and fine dining enthusiasts flock to Auckland’s incredible restaurants and cafes, so be sure to add some of the best to your must-do list if you love to tempt your taste buds. The French Café, Clooney Restaurant and Kazuya are ranked in TripAdvisor’s top 3 restaurants in Auckland, while Sachie’s Kitchen offers a hands-on fusion cooking school experience that will make you feel like a Master Chef.

Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the CBD? Waiheke Island is a unique destination offering vineyards, boutique olive groves and restaurant experiences, and is just a short ferry from Auckland.

Adventure junkies

Thrill seekers adore Auckland’s adrenaline-packed adventure offerings. Known as the City of Sails, no trip to Auckland is complete without some on-water action. Take a high-speed cruise around the city’s beautiful Viaduct Harbour, or feel the excitement of taking the helm and sailing an authentic America’s Cup yacht.

Perhaps one of the most famous adventures for adrenaline junkies in the area is the Auckland Harbour Bridge climb and bungy, which offers unparalleled views, and unprecedented thrills. Prefer to keep your feet firmly on land? Take the Rangitoto Island Summit Walk for gorgeous 360-degree views across the Hauraki Gulf, Waitakere Ranges and Hunua Ranges.

Entertainment seekers

Auckland’s entertainment calendar is always chock-full of concerts, festivals and events so be sure to check out what’s on during your stay. The annual NZ International Comedy Festival is an unmissable event for those who like to laugh, while the Auckland Arts Festival offers a truly special celebration of local arts and culture.

Auckland’s Vector Arena regularly plays host to New Zealand and international events year-round, so check their calendar while building your itinerary.

Sports fans

New Zealand is notoriously sports-mad, so sports fans should definitely pencil in time to witness some of the country’s leading teams represent in a game of rugby, cricket or netball. Check for games during your travel dates, or ask your concierge to help you grab great tickets to a local match.

If you’re travelling in November, register to run New Zealand’s iconic Auckland Marathon, or participate in the city’s festivities and cheer participants from the sidelines. If you’re visiting in March, see the world’s best triathletes compete in Tri Auckland.

Globe Trotters

Wherever you’re travelling from, and whatever your interests, don’t forget to check out Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower (and have a flutter at the casino), and spend some time exploring the restaurant precinct and sights of Viaduct Harbour, which is frequently home to an impressive collection of berthed super yachts.

If you’re out for a city stroll, be sure to take a wander down Auckland’s famous Karangahape Road – that’s K’ Road to the locals – which in recent years has become one of the cultural centres of the city, and is known for off-beat cafes, art galleries, nightlife and boutique shopping.